Abstract

A green, efficient, and simple method for synthesis of 5,6,7,8-tetrahydroquinoline-3-carbonitrile derivatives via one-pot three-component condensation of 2,6-bis(substituted benzylidene)cyclohexanone, arylamines/substituted 2-aminothiazoles, and malononitrile in the presence of bleaching earth clay pH 12.5 (basic catalyst) as a recyclable and green catalyst in PEG-400 is described. Catalyst recyclability, good to excellent product yield, shorter reaction time, and avoidance of hazardous reagents are the main advantages of this methodology.